Bengaluru : Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society (ULCCS) has concluded its centenary celebrations, marking 100 years since its inception on 13th February 1925. What began as a small group of visionary reformers has evolved into the world’s second-largest labour cooperative, distinguished by its unwavering commitment to governance, resilient infrastructure, and socio-economic progress.
The grand centenary celebrations culminated in a vibrant two-day event at the Sargaalya Arts and Crafts Village, a subsidiary of ULCCS themed “Creativity, Freedom: Challenges and Opportunities.” The festivities featured captivating cultural group performances, including Drama, Mohiniyattam, Group Dances, Thiruvathira, and Chendamelam, Mappilapat, Lalitaganam, Dramas as well as live demonstrations of Kerala’s rich artistic heritage.
Distinguished guests, including State and National level leaders of all major political parties in the state, Smt. Veena George, Minister of Health, Women and Child Development and Adv. P. Satidevi, Chairperson of the Kerala Commission for Women, graced the occasion, underscoring the economic and cultural significance of traditional arts and crafts. Notable figures, including renowned writers T. Padmanabhan, R. Rajasree, Malayalam film director Smt. Vidhu Vincent, actors Jagadish, Shankar Ramakrishnan, Vizhinjam Port MD Dr. Divya S. Aiyer and activist Sheetal Shyam were present at the event.
Honouring the legacy of Uralungal workers, leaders from across the political spectrum came together to pay tribute to their contributions, acknowledging their pivotal role in shaping the community’s identity.
Reflecting on this journey, Mr. Rameshan Paleri, Chairman, ULCCS, stated, “Our 100-year legacy is just the beginning of many more innovations and societal development programs. From a humble cooperative to a model of sustainable progress, our journey embodies resilience, innovation, and collective growth. We remain steadfast in our mission to empower communities and drive inclusive development.”
Added Mr. Paleri, “Inspired by social reformer Vagbhatananda, ULCCS has evolved from manual labour to executing large-scale projects, from highways and smart cities to IT hubs. As the only primary cooperative in India with permanent membership in the International Cooperative Alliance, we take pride in our global recognition. With our new beginnings through U-Sphere, we are set to transform construction, making it faster, more environmentally friendly, and economically viable.”
Founded in Uralungal to provide dignified employment for marginalized workers, ULCCS now employs over 18,000 people and has an annual turnover exceeding ₹2,400 crores. It leads major infrastructure, IT, housing, and skill development initiatives, balancing economic growth with social responsibility.
ULCCS ensures sustainability by diversifying into multiple sectors while staying true to its community-driven vision. Its IT arm, UL Technology Solutions (ULTS), spearheads digital transformation, while UL Cyberpark has strengthened Kerala’s tech sector by creating over 2,000 jobs. Beyond IT, ULCCS is revolutionizing prefabricated housing construction, with its newly launched subsidiary, U-Sphere, focused on smart, speedy, and sustainable construction. Other projects taken up by ULCCS also include material testing, and eco-friendly tourism through initiatives like the Kerala Arts & Crafts Village.
Committed to social welfare, ULCCS supports initiatives such as UL Care Nayanar Sadanam, which trains intellectually challenged adults, UL Care Madithattu for senior citizens, and UL Care Sargasheshi, which fosters artistic and economic opportunities for intellectually challenged women.
With a century of excellence behind it, ULCCS is shaping the future of cooperative innovation, integrating sustainability, technology, and community empowerment to redefine success in the decades ahead.
